How to Convert Blu-ray to Digital: The Ultimate Guide for 2025

Digital entertainment has changed so much that we can’t go back to physical media. Blu-ray used to be the best for high-definition video. But now it’s slowly being replaced by digital formats. These digital formats started as an idea and now they’re preferred because they’re easier to use and access. Blu-ray still gives you top quality audio and video, including 4K UHD but digital formats are more popular.

Converting your Blu-ray collection to digital format keeps the content's quality while also allowing for flexible viewing on a variety of devices. In this article, you will find the guide on how to convert Blu-ray to digital files, along with the recommended tools.

Why Convert Blu-ray to Digital?

Here are the reasons why we should convert Blu-ray to digital files:

• Backup Protection: A digital copy is a backup in case the physical discs are lost or scratched.
• Space-Saving: No physical space for discs, less clutter in your home.
• Portability: Digital files can be carried on multiple devices so you can access your collection anywhere.
• Faster Access: Search, play and organize your movies instantly without inserting Blu-ray discs.
• Easier Sharing: Share with friends or family through cloud services, external storage or streaming platforms.
• Avoid Region Coding Issues: Digital files bypass region restrictions so you can access content from anywhere in the world.

How to Digitize Blu-ray: Needed Tools and Options

Before you start the conversion process you’ll need the right tools and equipment.

Can You Convert Blu-ray to Digital Yourself?

Yes, you can definitely convert Blu-ray discs to digital files yourself. There are many software options for DIY conversion where you can rip Blu-ray and save it in different digital formats. But there are some challenges to consider. DIY methods require some technical know-how especially when dealing with dedicated Blu-ray to Digital software. Also output quality will depend on the settings you choose and it may take some time to convert each Blu-ray.

On the other hand professional services do it all for you but cost more and take longer. The choice between DIY and professional services depends on how much time, effort and money you are willing to put in.

Best Tools and Software to Convert Blu-ray to Digital

Here are the best DIY tools that you can use to convert Blu-ray to digital format:

DVDFab Blu-ray Ripper

DVDFab Blu-ray Ripper is a Blu-ray to digital converter for Windows and Mac that converts and rips Blu-ray discs into 1000+ video and audio formats and allows you to edit the converted files with its built-in video editor. This Blu-ray to digital converter includes 245 pre-set device settings and profile filter functions such as 4K, 8K, and H.265. Furthermore, this converter is user friendly; simply follow the steps below to utilize it.

How to use DVDFab Blu-ray Ripper to digitize Blu-ray？

Step 1: Select the "Ripper" module after installing the DVDFab software on your PC, then add the Blu-ray disc that you want to turn into a digital copy.

Step 2: From the main interface, you can customize the output profile by selecting titles, chapters, subtitles, audio tracks and so on. External subtitles can also be added.

Step 3: You can select an output format or device by clicking the "Choose other Profile" option.

Step 4: To change video, audio, subtitles, and other elements, you can select "Advanced Settings". You can also adjust the frame rates, encodings, resolutions, and volume settings here.

Step 5: The video editing tool allows you to trim any undesired video parts, crop the video frame, apply a watermark, change the video color, and so on.

Step 6: After all customizations are done, choose the output destination and click the “Start” button to start the process of converting Blu-ray to digital.

VLC Media Player

VLC media player can not only play Blu-ray discs but also convert them to various digital formats. However, if you want to convert or copy a commercial Blu-ray disc to digital using VLC, you need to install an extra library or plugin that contains the decryption capabilities. An example of this library is libaacs which is used to decrypt AACS-encrypted Blu-ray discs.

To use libaacs with VLC, download the library file and save it to the correct folder on your computer. After installing the library, the Blu-rays can be converted to digital format using VLC.

To do the Blu-ray conversion via VLC, take these steps:

Step 1: Visit the official website to download and launch VLC media player and add key database files.

• Download and Extract Java JRE:
  • First, download a supported Java JRE (note that the JDK is not needed).
  • Extract the JRE into a folder named java within your VLC directory.
• Download and Copy libaacs Libraries:
  • Next, download the libaacs libraries.
  • Copy these libraries directly to the root folder of the VLC directory (not into any subfolder).
  • Important: aacs_info.exe is not required, so you can skip it.
• Download and Place the Key Database:
  • Download the key database file and unzip it.
  • The essential file you need is keydb.cfg which is required for Blu-ray playback.
  • Inside the zip, you will find a FindVUK - Synchronize.bat script which can be used to synchronize the keydb.cfg file if needed.
• Place the Key Database File in the Correct Location:
  Depending on your operating system, place the keydb.cfg file in the following directory:
  • Windows: C:\ProgramData\aacs\
  • macOS: ~/Library/Preferences/aacs/ (Create this folder if it doesn't already exist)
  • Linux: ~/.config/aacs/
  • Linux SNAP: ~/snap/vlc/current/.config/aacs/

Step 2: The next step is to add AACS dynamic library.

Step 3: When you have finished with the key database files and AACS dynamic library, insert the Blu-ray disc you wish to convert.

Step 4: Go to the "Media" menu item in the top bar. From the drop-down option, choose "Convert / Save". In the "Open Media" window, click the "Disc" tab. Check the "Blu-ray" box and make sure you select the correct disc device. Then, click "Convert / Save".

Step 5: Lastly, choose the target file name and location in the "Convert" window, along with the digital format (MP4 or MKV) you wish to save the Blu-ray as. Then, click "Start" to start the Blu-ray to digital conversion.

HandBrake

HandBrake allows you to convert any copy-protected Blu-ray and create a digital version with custom options. This free program is available for Windows, Mac and Linux. You can use device presets or universal profiles for the best conversion.

Here’s how to convert Blu-ray to digital using HandBrake:

Step 1: First, download and install Handbrake and open it. Then, select the Blu-ray from your computer file by clicking “File”.

Step 2: next, select your preferred Blu-ray output format by clicking “Format”. Then, select the destination file to save the video by clicking “Browse”.

Step 3: Finally, click “Start Encode” on the top and the conversion will be done. You can now enjoy your Blu-ray digitally.

Note: Unfortunately, HandBrake can’t convert highly encrypted Blu-ray.

MakeMKV

MakeMKV is the best alternative for those looking for a free Blu-ray to digital converter for Windows, Mac, and Linux. It can handle Blu-rays protected with the most recent versions of AACS and BD+, and even rip 4K Blu-ray to MKV with all video and audio tracks, chapter information, and metadata. It works quickly because it does not encode video, only extracts.

But MakeMKV can only export MKV files, which may not be what you want if you want other formats. And no compression, so you will get a high quality but large digital copy. A lossless MKV from a Blu-ray will take around 25-50GB, so make sure your computer has enough free space.

How to digitize your Blu-ray collection with MakeMKV:

Step 1: Get MakeMKV from the official website, then install it on your Linux, Mac, or Windows computer.

Step 2: Launch MakeMKV and insert the Blu-ray disc you want to convert to digital.

Step 3: Next, locate the Blu-ray disc in the "Source" section. Click the "Open Blu-ray disc" button after selecting the disc.

Step 4: When MakeMKV shows a list of the Blu-ray disc's titles, check the boxes next to the ones you wish to convert, as well as the audio and subtitle tracks.

Step 5: Select the "Set output folder" button to choose the destination folder where you want to save the converted files.

Step 6: Finally, click the "Make MKV" button to begin converting your Blu-ray into an MKV digital file.

Online Tools for Partial Blu-ray Conversion

Since online programs are unable to directly access Bluray, it is impossible to convert Blu-ray to digital copies online. However, the disc's VOB file, which contains the movie data, can be converted to MP4 as a solution. Numerous VOB to MP4 converters are accessible online. Zamzar, Online-Convert, and CloudConvert are a few favored choices.

Below are the steps for using CloudConvert:

Step 1: Visit CloudConvert's official website. Choose MP4 as the output format and VOB as the input format.

Step 2: Next, transfer VOB files to it from your PC. If required, make some modifications.

Step 3: Finally, begin the conversion process and watch as it uploads and transforms.

Comparison Chart of Top Blu-ray to Digital Converters

FAQs

What is the best format for Blu-ray digital copies?

MP4 and MKV are the best formats for Blu-ray digital copies. MP4 is compatible with most devices and good quality, MKV is higher quality and more features but not all devices support it.

Is a digital copy the same as a Blu-ray?

No, a digital copy is not the same as a Blu-ray. Blu-ray discs offer high-quality video, audio, and extra features like menus and chapters, while digital copies are files that can be stored and played on various devices. Digital formats such as MP4 and MKV may not include all the features of a Blu-ray, but ISO files can retain the full Blu-ray experience.

Can you transfer Blu-ray to a hard drive or USB?

Yes, you can. You can transfer a Blu-ray to a hard disk, but you'll need Blu-ray ripping software. If you want to transfer to USB, make sure the drive has enough space to hold the Blu-ray movie/video.

How much storage space does a converted Blu-ray file require?

The file size depends on the quality and compression settings:

• A full-quality rip can be 20–50 GB.
• Compressed versions might range from 4–10 GB, depending on resolution and bit rate.

Can I preserve subtitles and multiple audio tracks during the conversion?

Yes, most Blu-ray ripping tools allow you to select subtitles and audio tracks to include in the digital file.

Conclusion

If you want to transfer your Blu-ray collection to your computer or external storage device, you need to know how to convert Blu-ray to digital formats, either by yourself or with a professional service. Blu-ray discs are high-definition, and it is important to maintain that quality when converting to digital. With a trusted tool like DVDFab Blu-ray Ripper, you can preserve the HD quality of your Blu-ray collection while converting it into smaller digital files. Try DVDFab Blu-ray Ripper right now and start ripping Blu-ray discs!